ABOUT US
OUR BACKGROUND
Launchpads was founded in 2020 in Newburgh, New York as a response to the student housing crisis in the United States. After we learned that challenges with housing and other non-academic factors often prevent promising students from realizing their potential, we set out to develop a solution to this dire gap in the higher education system.
OUR MISSION
At Launchpads, we’re dedicated to reducing the non-academic barriers students face to success by providing them with simple and affordable off-campus housing specifically designed for their needs and lifestyles.
OUR VISION
We strive to help transform higher education outcomes and provide more equitable opportunities for all students to realize their full potential.
OUR LEADERSHIP
Our leadership embodies our values by always putting the needs of students first.
Brendan Taliaferro
Cofounder & CEO
Brendan is the Cofounder and CEO of Launchpads. Before cofounding Launchpads, he developed creative solutions for addressing youth homelessness. The Launchpads mission embodies two of his core beliefs: the power of education to improve lives and the power of housing to build community.
Max Thompson
Cofounder
Max Thompson is the Cofounder of Launchpads. He has amassed over a decade of experience in finance and real estate, which serve as the foundation for the Launchpads real estate, operational, and growth strategies.
Onix Silva
Resident Director
Onix Silva serves as the inaugural Resident Director of the Launchpads Newburgh campus. With over four years of experience in higher education and residence life, Onix is dedicated to finding novel and responsive ways to support and empower students to succeed.
Mariano Gonzalez
Facilities Manager
Mariano Gonzalez serves as the Facilities Manager for the Launchpads Newburgh Campus. He has over two decades of experience in construction, project management, and facilities maintenance in New York City and beyond.
OUR CAMPUS IN NEWBURGH, NY
